By Chun-Liang Chiu and Yuan-Chen Hu 

Sewing a Path to Empowerment 

On March 11, 2025, the women of Bodh Gaya, India, achieved a milestone they once thought unattainable. As participants of the Tzu Chi Sewing Class, five advanced students proudly received monetary awards for their efforts in sewing school uniforms—a tangible symbol of their determination, hard work, and dreams coming to life. 

Fostering Confidence and Independence 

The Tzu Chi Sewing Class began on November 1, 2023, with the aim of equipping local women with practical sewing skills. Over time, with dedicated mentorship from instructor Rekha Devi and volunteers like Sew Yong Lim, it has evolved into a professional training initiative. This program empowers women to earn an income, contribute to their households, and elevate their roles in their families and communities. 

Tzu Chi volunteer Sew Yong Lim (far left), teacher Rekha (second left), and the sewing class students pose together with their finished products. | Photo: Yuan-Chen Hu | India | 2025/3/11 

Although the journey hasn’t been easy, these women have learned to craft school uniforms for boys in government schools, overcoming challenges and imperfections along the way. To encourage their progress, Tzu Chi purchased their creations through monetary rewards, providing both validation and motivation. 

Turning Challenges into Triumphs 

For Rubi Devi, a participant from Bakraur Village, the transformation has been profound. Initially daunted by the complexity of sewing even a simple shirt collar, she now looks back on her journey with pride. Under Rekha Devi’s patient guidance, Rubi conquered her fears and achieved a significant milestone by completing her first school uniform. 

Her hard work paid off—both literally and figuratively. On this special day, she received her first monetary award. “I’ll use this money to pay for my children’s school fees,” she said, beaming with pride. But Rubi’s aspirations don’t end here; she’s determined to learn new skills, like sewing pants, and envisions a future where she shares her knowledge with others. 

Rekha Devi (right) hands a monetary award to Rubi Devi (left), whose excitement and pride shine brightly. | Photo: Yuan-Chen Hu | India | 2025/3/11

 Nurturing Growth and Excellence 

Despite working with foot-operated sewing machines—far less efficient than modern equipment—Sew Yong Lim sees immense promise in these women. Drawing from her background in garment production, Lim provides practical advice to help the participants improve their techniques. 

In addition to making student shirts, Rubi Devi is also adept at creating her own traditional attire. | Photo: Yuan-Chen Hu | India | 2025/3/11

“Traditional attire demonstrates their ability to cut and sew with precision,” she said. “With practice, they’ll perfect their uniform-making skills too.” Lim has already introduced small yet impactful changes, like using cardboard backing for collars, to enhance the quality of their work. 

As these women refine their skills, the program remains steadfast in its mission: to empower participants with the confidence and expertise to shape a better future for themselves and their families. 

After every session, participants tidy the classroom, reflecting their gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow. | Photo: Yuan-Chen Hu | India 2025/3/11

The Tzu Chi Sewing Class in Bodh Gaya is far more than a training program; it serves as a platform for transformation, instilling hope, independence, and strength in each participant. With determination, thoughtful mentorship, and a shared vision, these women are stitching together not only garments but also brighter futures for themselves and their communities.